The Mughal ruler who was to recruit Rajput nobles in his administration was

Akbar

61

The reforms announced by the British Govt.in 1909 are known as

The Morle-Minto Reforms

62

The architect who designed the capital City of New Delhi was

E.L.Lutyens

63

At the time of independence, the number of princely states in India were

552

64

The Indian Prime Minister known as "Man of Peace" was

Lal Bahadur Shastri

65

The Indian king who fought the last Anglo-Mysore War against the English was

Tipu Sultan

66

Kohinoor Diamond was taken away by

Nadir Shah

67

The full name of Shahjehan was

Khurram Shihabuddin Mohammed Shahjehan

68

The Bardoli satyagraha was started by

Mahatma Gandhi

69

The founder of Arya Samaj was

Swamy Dayanand Saraswati

70

The Governor General who abolished Sati was

Lord William Bentinck

71

Bihar was earlier known as

Magadha

72

Agra was earlier known as

Akbarabad

73

"Harsha Charit" was written by

Banabatta

74

Chandragupta Maurya spent the last days of his life at

Sravanabelagola

75

Jalianwala Bagh Massacre took place at

Amritsar

76

Vijayanagar kingdom was situated on the banks of river

Tungabhadra

77

In 1498,the sea route to india was discovered by

Vasco-da-gama

78

King Bhoja was from the which dynasty

Pratihara

79

The period 1206 Ad to 1526 AD is known as

The Delhi Sultanate

80

Agra city was founded by

Sikandar Lodhi

81

Vijaynagar Empire was founded by

Harihara and Bukka

82

The Vijayanagar kings fought frequent wars with the

Bahamani Sultans

83

The last king of the Vijayanagar empire was

Rama Raya

84

Shankaracharya was associated with which movement

Bhakti

85

Ramanuja preached the philosophy of

Vishishtadvaita

86

The followers of Ramanuja are known as

Vaishnavas

87

Kabir was the disciple of

Ramanand

88

The founder of Sikh religion was

Guru Nanak

89

Babar defeated Ibrahim Lodhi in the year

1526 AD

90

Babar died in the year

1530 AD

91

Humayun was defeated by

Sher Shah Suri

92

Humayun died at the age of

48 years

93

Akbar was crowned in the year

1556 AD

94

In the second battle of Panipat, Akbar defeated

Himu

95

Akbar died in the year

1605 Ad

96

The original name of Nurjahan was

Mehrunisa

97

Jehangir was known for his

Justice

98

Jehangir died in the year

1627 AD

99

Aurangzeb was the son of

Shahjehan

100

Aurangzeb died in the year

1707 AD

101

The first Guru of the sikhs was

Guru Nanak Dev

102

The tenth Guru of the sikhs was

Guru Gobind Singh

103

Amritsar was founded by

Guru Ram Das

104

The Golden Temple was built by

Guru Arjan Dev

105

The Akal Takht was built by

Guru Hargobind

106

Guru Gobind Singh was born in

1666 AD

107

The `Khalsa' at Anandpur Sahib was founded by

Guru Gobind Singh

108

Maharaja Ranjit Singh was born in

1780 AD

109

Bahadur Shah Zafar died in the year

1862 AD

110

Shivaji died at age of

50 years

111

In tne year 1798,who was appointed as the Governor-General

Wellesley

112

Wellesley started the policy of

Subsidiary Alliance

113

Dalhousie became the Governor-General in

1848 AD

114

The first war of Indian Independence fought in 1857 is also known as

The Sepoy Mutiny

115

The Lady ruler who participated in the 1857 Revolt was

Rani Laxmi Bai of Jhansi

116

The Indian Association was formed in 1876 at

Calcutta

117

The Indian National Congress was formed in

1885 AD

118

The Rowlatt Act was passed in the year

1919 AD

119

The Jalianwala Bagh Massacre took place in the year

1919 AD

120

The movement launched in 1920 is known as

The Non-Co-operation Movement

121

The Simon Commission came to India in the year

1928 AD

122

Chandragupta Maurya was succeeded by

Bindusara

123

Ashoka invaded Kalinga in the year

261 BC

124

Ashoka died in the year

232 BC

125

Ashoka ruled for a period of

40 years

126

The last king of Maurya dynasty was

Brihadratha

127

Chandragupta was succeeded by

Samudragupta

128

The Iron Pillar near Qutb Minar was erected by

Chandragupta II

129

Fahien, a Chinese traveller visited india during the reign of

Chandragupta II

130

Harshavardhana ascended the throne at the age of

16 years

131

Harshavardhana was defeated by

Pulakeshin II

132

The Chinese traveller who visited India during the reign of Harshavardhana was

Hieun Tsang

133

Akbar was succeeded by

Jehangir

134

Jehangir was succeeded by

Shahjehan

135

In ancient times this river was called Shatadru. How do we know it now?

Sutlej.

136

In the Rigveda there is a reference to the "Dasharajna Yuddha". What does this refer to?

It was a battle of 10 kings fought between Sudasa, a king of the Tritsu family on one side, and a confederacy of 10 tribes on the other. It was fought on the banks of the Parushni (Ravi). Sudasa defeated his enemies in this battle.

137

Who was the ruler of the territory between the Jhelum and the Ravi when Alexander invaded India?

Paurava or Porus as the Greeks called him.

138

When Porus surrendered to Alexander, Alexander asked him how he wished to be treated. What was Porus' reply?

"As one King would treat another". This was his famous reply that has become a classic. Hearing this Alexander not only reinstated Porus on the throne, but he also added territories towards the east and domains of many republican states to the existing kingdom of Porus (according to Plutarch).

139

Who was Megasthenes?

Megasthenes was the Greek ambassador to the Mauryan Court.

140

Who sent Megasthenes as his ambassador to the Mauryan Court?

Seleucus Nikator.

141

Where did Seleucus Nikator rule?

Babylon. He gradually extended his empire from the Mediterranean Sea to the Indus.

142

Whom did Chandragupta Maurya defeat to establish his kingdom?

The Nanda dynasty of Magadha.

143

Who helped Chandragupta Maurya defeat the Nanda rulers?

Kautilya also called Chanakya.

144

Of which territories was Ashoka the Viceroy before he became the king?

Taksha-Shila and Ujjain.

145

"Beloved of the gods" and "of amiable appearance". Ashoka used these titles in his inscriptions. Can you give the original titles?

"Devanampiya" and "Piyadassi" (Devanampriya and Priyadarshin).

146

What was unique about the personal bodyguards of the Maurya rulers?

They were women.

147

Who was the last Maurya King?

Brihadratha.

148

Who overthrew Brihadratha?

Pushyamitra, who was his Commander-in-chief.

149

What was the name of the dynasty that succeeded Mauryan dynasty?

The Shunga dynasty. (Pushyamitra founded this dynasty after he overthrew the Mauryan ruler)

150

From which source have historians got some details of the overthrow of the Mauryan dynasty?

Bana's Harshacharita written almost eight centuries after the event.

151

The Allahabad Pillar inscription is the most authentic record about the reign of a famous Emperor. Identify that Emperor.

Samudra Gupta

152

The Hindu kingdom of Champa flourished outside the present boundaries of India. Where would the kingdom be located in today's context?

Vietnam. During this period, the country was considered a great centre of Vedic education.

153

What is Theravada in the context of Buddhism?

It is a major form of Buddhism prevalent in Sri Lanka, Burma, Cambodia, Laos and Thailand.

154

Where is Angkor Vat located?

It is located in the ancient kingdom of Kambuja (modem Cambodia). It means Temple (Vat) of the city (Angkor).

155

Who constructed Angkor Vat?

Suryavarman II.

156

To whom is Angkor Vat dedicated?

Vishnu.

157

Who wrote Uttara-Rama-Charitam?

Bhavabhuti.

158

What is the Gandhara art also known as?

Indo-Greek. The Gandhara sculptures drew their inspiration from the Hellenic (Greek) art of Asia Minor.

159

After whom have the rock-cut temples at Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu been named?

The five Pandavas and Draupadi.

160

To which dynasty did Gautamiputra Shatakarni belong?

Shatavahanas.

161

Who founded the Shatavahana dynasty?

The founder of the family was Simuka but it was Shatakarni I who raised it to eminence.

162

Who wrote the Buddha Charita?

Ashvaghosha.

163

To which dynasty did Kanishka belong?

The Kushana dynasty

164

On the banks of which river did Harappa lie?

Ravi. Mohenjodaro was on the bank of the Sindhu
(Indus.)

165

Name the trading station of the Indus Valley Civilisation.

Lothal.

166

The 'Sapta Sindhu' was the area of the initial Aryan settlement. To what region did it refer?

The land of the Sindhu (Indus) and its principal tributaries.

167

Which is the crime that is most often mentioned in the
Rjgveda?

Cattle-lifting.

168

What does the word 'Sangam' refer to in Tamil History?

It is the literary assembly of Tamil scholars held at Madurai under the patronage of the Pandyan Kings.

169

Which great Chola Emperor started the tradition of installing epigraphs with historical introductions?

Rajaraja Chola.

170

Nalanda and Vikramshila were very famous in ancient India. What was the reason for their fame?

These were the centres where the famous Buddhist Universities flourished.

171

What were Nalanda, Vikramshila in reality?

Buddhist monasteries. They later took on the shape of universities.

172

What does the term Bhagavata relate to?

CC.

173

Greek sources refer to him as Sandrocottus (Androcottus). How do we know him?

What was the reason for the importance of Kaveripattanam during the Sangam period?

It was among the chief ports of the Tamil countries that carried on trade with the Romans.

176

What was the intoxicating drink that was consumed by the Rig Vedic Aryans during religious ceremonies?

Soma.

177

How do we better know "Sakyamuni" (Shakyamuni)?

Buddha.

178

Who was the twenty-fourth and the last Tirthankara of the Jains?

Vardhamana Mahavira

179

On the basis of the Dhamma that Ashoka propagated, what is "Shusrusha"?

Shusrusha meant obedience to father, mother, teacher and men of high caste.

180

What is the literal meaning of Mohenjodaro?

Mound of the dead.

181

What is a Stupa?

It is a kind of tomb where the relics of Buddha or other Buddhist monks are kept.

182

What were the four sights which Gautam saw, while being driven around the city?

An old man, a sick man, a corpse and an ascetic.

183

Who was the chief deity of the Sangam Period?

Murugan (Karttikeya)

184

Which Gupta ruler is also known as 'Kavi Raja'?

Samudragupta.

185

Samudragupta is represented on coins as playing a particular musical instrument. Which musical instrument is that?

Veena.

186

What is common to the following: Kumarasambhava, Ritusamhara, Raghuvamsham and Meghdootam?

They are all works of Kalidasa.

187

What was the name of Harsha's sister?

Rajyashri

188

What was the title assumed by Harsha when he ascended the throne?

Shiladitya

189

Whom did Harsha succeed?

His elder brother, Rajyavardhana.

190

Mahendra, the son of Ashoka, was sent as a Buddhist missionary to a particular kingdom. Identify the kingdom.

Sri Lanka

191

In ancient times, who were the foreigners who were called Yavanas?

The Greeks. The word was derived from the Old Persian form of the word 'Yauna', signifying originally the Ionian Greeks, but later, all people of Greek nationality. In the medieval times it came to be used for all foreigners irrespective of their place of origin.

192

What was Sumatra called as, in ancient times?

Suvarnadvipa.

193

Who systematised the rules of Sanskrit grammar
(4 Century BC) in the work Ashtadhyayi?

Panini.

194

One of the chief sources of revenue from villages mentioned in the Ashokan inscriptions is the "Bhaga". What is it?

Bhaga: King's share of the produce of the soil, usually l/6th. The other source of revenue was the Bali. The Bali was the land tribute paid to the King.

195

In the Mauryan times if someone were referring to the Karshapana, what would he be talking about?

The Karshapana was a copper coin that was in use during the Mauryan times. Dharana was a Silver coin and the Kakani were smaller copper coins.

196

Where is Gandhara art found?

The ruins of Taksha-shila, in modern Pakistan and Afghanistan.

197

What were the Jains originally called?

Nirgrantha.

198

In Jainism a small group of people were called Ganadharas. Who were they?

The close disciples of Mahavira were called Ganadharas.

199

For a while, Bhagavatism and Brahmanism were separate sects. How did the two merge into one?

When Krishna, the main deity of Bhagavatism, began to be identified with Vishnu, the main deity of Brahmanism, the two sects merged into one.

200

What is the importance of the Khyber and Bolan passes in Indian history?

The land route between India and West Asia lies through these passes.

201

Which city in ancient India was famous for its textile industry?

Mathura

202

What is Stridhana?

It is the exclusive property of a married lady, something she often inherits from her mother.

203

According to the Arthashastra the Senapati was an important member of the Mantri Parishad. What was his role?

Commander-in-Chief of the army.

204

Jyotisha is one of the Vedangas. What does it deal with?

Astronomy and astrology

205

Two popular assemblies used to control the affairs of the Vedic kingdoms. Name them.

Sabha: - Body of the elders. Constituted of Brahmins and rich patrons.
Samiti: - An assembly of common people. Meant for the discharge of administration.

206

Who or what are the 'Uttariya' and 'Antariya'?

In ancient India, antariya (dhoti) a lower garment was worn by all common people. Uttariya was the garment that covered the upper part of the body. In addition to these the well-to-do people wore Prapata around the waist. Around the prapata, the rich wore Rasana, usually of gold. Ushneesha was used to cover the head and Stanapatta was worn to cover the breasts.

207

Who built the rock-cut temples at Ellora?

The Rashtrakuta king, Krishna I.

208

In the context of Buddhism, what is Vinaya Pitaka?

It is the work that deals with the governance of the life of Buddhists. It also describes the gradual development of the Sangha and the life and teachings of Buddha.

209

What is contained in the Sutta Pitaka?

Sutta Pitaka incorporates the greatest literary works of Buddhism. Of the five collections, the first four consist of discourses of Buddha.

210

Patanjali's Mahabhashya refers to some of the stories about Krishna's early life. Who does Patanjali call Samkarshana?

Balarama.

211

With which modern township would you identify the ancient port of Suppara (also known as Surparaka)?

Nala Sopara an extended suburb of modern Mumbai.

212

What was the basis of barter for common articles during the Vedic period?

Paddy.

213

In which script were a majority of the Ashoka inscriptions written?

Brahmi. Brahmi script was used in the whole of the country, except the northwest.

214

What script did Ashoka use in the inscriptions of the Northwest of India?

Kharoshti script.

215

The Jaina texts were finally compiled in the sixth century A.D. in Vallabhi in Gujarat. In which language were they written?

Prakrit.

216

Who wrote the Arthashastra?

Kautilya.

217

Which is a very important source of information for the social, political and economic life of the people living in the Tamil Naidu area in the early Christian era?

Sangam literature.

218

Who is the author of the Greek work "Indika"?

Megasthenes. This book, however, is not available to us in its entirety and survives only in quotations by subsequent classical writers.

219

When did the Vikram Samvat begin in India?

It began in 57 B.C.

220

Over which part of present-day India did the Pala dynasty rule?

Bengal.

221

When did the Shaka era begin in India?

78A.D.

222

Who started the Shaka era?

Kanishka of the Kushana dynasty.

223

When did the Gupta era begin in India?

In 320 A.D., after Chandragupta of the Gupta dynasty.

224

Over which kingdom did Kharavela rule?

Kalinga.

225

According to Buddhist sources, a dreaded dacoit had a transformation of heart and took refuge in Buddha's Dhamma. Who was he?

Angulimala.

226

An accomplished and rich dancer gave away her mango-grove to the Sangha of Buddha and became his disciple. Name her.

Amrapali.

227

Why was the Indus Valley Civilisation originally called the Harappan Civilisation?

It was so called because the first site of this civilization was discovered (in 1921) at the modern site of Harappa, in present day Pakistan.

228

What was the basis of the town planning of the people of the Indus Valley Civilisation?

It was the Grid System. In the format that they used all roads cut across each other almost at right angles. This led to the city being divided into blocks.

229

What was the most important public place in Mohenjodaro?

It was the Great Bath. It was probably used for ritual bathing.

230

What religion did Kharavela patronise?

Jainism.

231

The Greeks called cotton "Sindon". There is a reason behind this name. What is it?

The people of the Indus Valley Civilisation were the first to produce cotton and therefore the Greeks called it Sindon. This word is derived from the name Sindh.

232

Karikala Chola founded a famous city. What was it?

Puhar. Identified with Kaveripatnam the Chola capital.

233

To which Age does the Indus Valley Civilisation belong?

The Bronze Age. Iron was not known to them.

234

What is the birthplace of Shankaracharya?

Kaladi. Shankaracharya was a famous exponent of the Advaita philosophy. Advaita literally means not two. Advaita believes in an eternal being and holds that the plurality is nothing but illusion.

235

How many books or Mandalas does the Rig Veda contain?

Ten.

236

Who introduced chariots drawn by horses into India?

The Aryans

237

Who was born to Siddhartha and Trishala in the year 540 B.C.?

Vardhamana Mahavira

238

According to the Arthashastra, the Purohita was an important member of the Mantri Parishad. What was his role?

He was the High Priest.

239

In ancient India handicraftsmen were organised into economic corporations or guilds. What were these Guilds called?

Shreni.

240

Who wrote Kadambari?

Banabhatta.

241

At what age did Mahavira abandon the world and become an ascetic?

At the age of 30 yrs.

242

Where and when did Mahavira pass away?

In 468 B.C at Pavapuri, in modern Bihar.

243

Jainism was divided into two sects. Name them.

Shvetambara: - Those clad in white.
Digambara: - Those who are sky-clad (or are naked)

244

Where was Buddha born?

Buddha was born in the royal grove in Lumbini near Kapilavastu.

245

Where did Buddha deliver his first sermon?

At Sarnath.

246

What was the path to be followed to be free from misery according to Buddha?

He recommended following the eight-fold path, (ashtanga magga)

247

Under whose rule did Magadha first attain prominence?

Bimbisara. According to Ashwaghosha, Bimbisara belonged to the Haryanka dynasty.

248

Who was the Royal Physician at Bimbisara's court?

Jivaka.

249

Which was the capital of the kingdom of Magadha before Pataliputra?

Girivraja. Also called Rajagriha or Rajgir.

250

Who succeeded Bimbisara to the throne of Magadha?

Ajatashatru.

251

Which dynasty succeeded the dynasty of Bimbisara?

The Shishunagas. They conquered the kingdom of Avanti, and made it a part of the Magadhan empire.

252

Where was Pataliputra situated?

It was situated at the confluence of the Gandak, the Son, and the Ganga. It is present-day Patna.

253

What were the reasons behind the refusal of the Greek soldiers to accompany Alexander beyond the Beas?

They were war weary and home sick. The hot climate of India did not suit them. Having experienced the fighting abilities of the Indian people they were apprehensive about the power of the Nandas. All these reasons contributed to their refusal.

254

What theme does Vishakhadatta's play, Mudrarakshasa, deal with?

The strategies adopted by Chanakya against the enemies of Chandragupta Maurya.

255

Which were the four divisions of the army in ancient India?

Infantry, cavalry, elephants and chariots.

256

Why did Ashoka exempt the village of Lumbini from 'Bali' (tribute paid to the king)?

Because this was the birthplace of Gautama Buddha.

257

Menander, also known as Milinda, was the most famous of the Indo-Greek kings. Where was his capital city?

Sakala, modern Sialkot.

258

Who was the Buddhist monk who converted Menander into Buddhism?

Nagasena or Nagarjuna.

259

What is the Milinda Panha?

It is a book, which records the conversation between Nagarjuna and Menander. Milinda Panha literally means Questions by Milinda.

260

Who issued the first long inscription in chaste
Sanskrit?

Rudradaman, the famous Shaka ruler.

261

We know of two successive dynasties of the Kushanas. Who founded them?

The first dynasty was founded by Kadphises I and the second by Kanishka.

262

The Shakas and the Kushanas completely identified themselves with Indian culture. What factors helped them in this?

They did not have a script of their own nor did they have any organised religion.

263

What were the articles of clothing introduced in India by the Shakas and the Kushanas?

Trousers, long coat, tunic and turban. The turban, however, is mentioned as a head dress in ancient India (Ushneesha)

264

How were the foreign elements like Shaka, Pahlava and the Kushanas assimilated into Indian society?

Since they came as conquerors they were classified as Kshatriyas.

265

Buddhism was divided into two sects. What were they?

Mahayana: - The Great wheel. Hinayana: - The Lesser wheel.

266

Name the two Buddhist centres located in present day Andhra Pradesh?

Nagarjunakonda and Amaravati.

267

What was the contribution of the Greeks to Indian theatre techniques?

The use of curtain was borrowed from the Greeks. The curtain was called "Yavanika".

268

Over which areas did the Shatavahana dynasty rule?

The Deccan and Central India.

269

Over which area of India did Rashtrakutas rule?

Northern Maharashtra.

270

Who were Gandhikas?

Artisans who are mentioned as giving donations to the Buddhists. Originally Gandhika meant perfumes but was later used to describe shopkeepers. The name Gandhi is said to have been derived from it.

271

What was the Buddhist temple known as?

Chaitya.

272

What was a Buddhist monastery known as?

Vihara.

273

What were the main articles of trade of the Southern Kingdoms of the Cholas, the Cheras and the Pandyas?

Spices especially pepper, ivory, pearls, muslin and silk.

274

Name two of the epics of the Sangam Age.

Silappadikaram, Jivakachintamani and Manimekalai.

275

What was the Uttarapatha?

It was the route that was used for trade. It ran from Taksha-shila to Broach on the Western coast.

276

Which empire rose on the remains of the Kushan Empire?

The Gupta Empire.

277

Who were Lichchhavis? What are they known for?

Lichchhavis ruled over a vast area from Magadha to Nepal. They were best known for the democracy they practised. It would not be correct to compare it with democracy as understood today. Some preferred to call it oligarchy.

278

Who wrote 'Hitopadesha'?

Narayana Bhatta. Hitopadesha is a collection of stories, most of which were drawn from the Panchatantram of Vishnu Sharma.

279

Who is regarded as the first important King of the Gupta dynasty?

Chandragupta I.

280

Which Gupta ruler adopted the title 'Vikramaditya'?

Chandragupta II. He is regarded as the greatest of the Gupta rulers (376 to 414 AD).

281

Who was the Chinese pilgrim who visited India during the time of Chandragupta II?

Fa-Hien.

282

Who was the first Gupta king to assume the title 'Rajadhiraja"?

Chandragupta I. In addition to 'Rajadhiraja', Samudragupta assumed the titles 'Parambhattaraka' and 'Paramabhagavata'.

283

What was the image on the royal seal of the Guptas?

Garuda.

284

Who was the author of the play 'Mrichchhakatikam'?

Shudraka.

285

Which empire rose on the ruins of the empire of the Pallavas of Kanchi?

The Chola Empire.

286

A ruling dynasty at Thanesar, (in modern Haryana), extended its authority over the feudatories of the Gupta Empire. Who was the ruler who achieved this?

Harsha.

287

Which city did Harsha make his capital?

Kanauj.

288

Who was the Chinese pilgrim who visited India during the time of Harsha?

Hiuen Tsang.

289

Who was the ruler of South India who prevented Harsha from extending his kingdom southwards?

Who was reputed to be the author of the following books: Priyadarshika, Ratnavali and Nagananda?

Harsha.

294

In which book would you find the famous Gayatri mantra?

Rigveda.

295

In the Rigveda, a daughter is sometimes referred to as 'duhitr'. What is the literal translation of the word?

One who milks the cow.

296

Who was the first person to hold that the earth was a sphere and rotated on its axis?

Aryabhata. He also declared that the eclipses were not the work of Rahu but were caused by the shadow of the earth falling on the moon. Varahamihira and Brahmagupta later astronomers did not agree with his view. Aryabhata also gave an accurate approximation
ofn.

297

What is the 'Dharmachakrapravartana'?

The preaching of the first sermon by Buddha.

298

Who was responsible for establishing the order of nuns in Buddhism?

Ananda, the personal attendant of Buddha, was largely responsible for the admission of Gautami (the widowed stepmother of Buddha) into the Sangha. This was the beginning of the order of nuns.

299

Who deciphered the Asokan inscriptions?

James Prinsep.

300

The word 'Aryan' originates from the Sanskrit word 'Arya'. What was the meaning of the word?

Of good famil

No.

Question

Answer

301

What was the complaint of Pliny the elder, against India?

He complained that India drained Roman wealth by selling luxury articles at high prices to Romans

302

What was the name of the son of King of Takshashila who offered Alexander help in invading India?

Ambhi. This was the first recorded instance of an Indian King turning traitor.

303

What was the name the Greeks used to refer to Ambhi?

Omphis.

304

By which name do we know the ancient city of Prayag?

Allahabad.

305

Of the five Siddhantas (Indian astronomical works) two are said to be of Western origin. Which?

Romaka Siddhanta and Paulisa Siddhanta. This shows that Indian astronomy was considerably influenced by Western thoughts.

306

What is the modern name for the ancient city of Purushapura?

Peshawar.

307

From which language is the word 'Sindoora'
(vermilion) derived?

Chinese. (From the Chinese word Tsin-sung.)

308

According to Chinese sources Kaundinya an Indian Prince, formed a kingdom in south East Asia. Where was this kingdom located?

Cambodia.

309

Who was Buddha's personal physician?

Jivaka. Jivaka was the personal physician of Bimbisara. During his visit to Buddha, Bimbisara offered the services of Jivaka, who became Buddha's personal physician.

310

Who were the Ajivikas?

They were one of the prominent religious sects during the time of Mahavira and Buddha.

311

In Vedic times, who was referred to as a 'Grihapati'?

The master of the house.

312

Which common seasoning ingredient of today finds no reference in the Rig Veda?

Salt.

313

What was the name of the famous tract of land that lay between the Saraswati and the Drishadvati?

Kurukshetra.

314

What was the Rajasuya sacrifice (yajna)?

It was the yajna to mark the royal consecration. It included offerings to the gods in the houses of officials and a formal abhisheka by the priest. Other popular rites that followed were a cow-raid and a game of dice in which the king was made the Victor.

315

What was the Vishwajit sacrifice?

In the Vishwajit sacrifice, the (yajamana) performer had to give away all that he possessed.

316

Who succeeded Chandra Gupta I?

Samudragupta.

317

According to legend, who succeeded Samudragupta?

His son Rama Gupta. He was a weak ruler who surrendered his wife to a Shaka tyrant. Her honour was saved by the younger brother of Rama Gupta, Chandra Gupta, who killed the Shaka ruler, replaced his brother on the throne and married Dhruvadevi.

318

Who succeeded Chandra Gupta II?

His son Kumara Gupta, who ruled from AD 415 to 455.

319

Who or what were the Huns?

They were a race of fierce, warlike people, whose original home was in the steppes of Central Asia. They spread terror and destruction both in the West (i.e. the Roman Empire) and India.

320

Which Gupta ruler successfully defended his empire against the invading Huns?

Skanda Gupta.

321

Which Gupta ruler performed the Ashwamedha yajna?

Samudra Gupta.

322

Into which group of people were the Huns assimilated by the Indian society?

The Rajputs.

323

Which dynasty claimed its descent from Lakshmana, the brother of Shri Rama?

The Pratiharas. By the ninth century the influence of Pratiharas extended from the Punjab to central India and from Kathiawar to north Bengal.

324

Who invented the decimal place value system?

Aryabhata invented the decimal place value system. Scholars hold that it cannot be said with certainty that the system was invented by Aryabhata. It seems it was known to astronomers who came before him.

325

The Cholas extended their territory in South India and also conquered the northern part of Sri Lanka. Who was the ruler who made northern Sri Lanka a province of his empire?

Rajaraja Chola.

326

Which part of India did the Arabs first conquer?

Sindh. Mohammed Ibn-Kasim, the nephew and son-in-law of the governor of Iraq, defeated Dahir Sen in 712 A.D.

327

What are the four sources of Law according to the law giver, Manu?

a. Sruti or the Vedas.
b. Smriti (expanded version of the Dharma shastras). Smriti is also regarded as the only authentic source of Hindu Law and social customs,
c. Customs of holy men
d. One's own inclination.

328

By what name was the area of western and northwestern Bengal known?

Gauda. The name was applied both to the people and their country.

329

Where in Maharashtra are frescoes that depict the Jataka Stories?

At Ajanta, near Ellora caves.

330

What was the language used by the people of the Indus Valley Civilization?

Historians have as yet not been able to determine the language used by the people of the Indus Valley Civilization. The script used by the people of the Indus Valley Civilization has also not been deciphered.

331

Which was the animal that was most engraved on Indus Valley Civilization seals?

The Humpless Bull.

332

What was unique about the ascension to the throne by Gopala, the founder of the Pala dynasty in Gauda (present day West Bengal)?

He was not a hereditary ruler, but was elected by the people to rule over them.

333

Which was the seat of power of the Pallava dynasty?

Kanchipuram. The Pallavas founded the first great empire in south India. Under the Pallavas, Kanchi became a great centre of Brahminical and Buddhist
learning.

334

Who was the Chola ruler who crossed the Ganga and defeated the rulers there?

Rajendra Chola.

335

When did the first invasion of Mahmud of Ghazni take
place?

1000 A.D.

336

Who was the first Indian ruler defeated by Mahmud of Ghazni?

Jayapala of the Hindushahi dynasty.

337

Where is Ghazni?

In modem Afghanistan.

338

Why were temples the main target of Mahmud of Ghazni?

They had immense wealth stockpiled.

339

Who was the Arab traveller whose work on India is referred to as a mirror of 11"1 century India?

Alberuni.

340

At whose request did Alberuni travel to India?

Mahmudof Ghazni.

341

At which battle did Prithviraj Chauhan defeat Mohammed of Ghori?

In the first Battle of Tarain in 1190-91.

342

Which medieval ruler is reputed to be an author of almost 20 books on subjects as diverse as medicine, architecture and astronomy?

Raja Bhoja of the Paramara dynasty. The Paramara dynasty ruled over the Malwa region.

343

Identify the person who was in charge of Mohammad of Ghori's possessions in India.

Qutbuddin Aibak.

344

To which deity was the temple of Somnath dedicated?

Shiva.

345

Who wrote the Ramayana in Tamil?

Kamban.

346

Who was the founder of the Slave dynasty?

Qutbuddin Aibak.

347

Why is the term "Slave dynasty" an inaccurate term?

Only three sultans (Qutbuddin Aibak, Iltutmish and Balban) were slaves, and later even they were released from slavery by their masters. They were slaves, but only in the early part of their lives.

348

Who was the only woman to ascend the throne of Delhi?

Razia Sultana.

349

Which Persian historian accompanied Alauddin Khalji on his expedition to Chittor?

Amir Khusrau.

350

The Choda Ganga dynasty of Orissa was responsible for the construction of some famous temples. Can you identify them?

The Jagannath temple at Puri and the Sun Temple at Konark.

351

Name the king of Mewar who is said to have built thirty two forts during his reign?

RanaKumbha

352

How did Rana Kumbha celebrate his victory over Mahmud Khalji of Malwa?

He built the Tower of Victory in Chittor. It is called the Vijayastambha.

353

Who helped Humayun save himself after the Battle of Chausa?

A water carrier helped Humayun cross the Ganga and to safety.

354

Over which kingdom did Chand Bibi rule?

She ruled over Ahmadnagar as a Regent.

355

What articles of trade was the kingdom of Golconda known for?

Diamonds and textiles.

356

Who founded the city of Hyderabad?

Mohammad Quli Qutub Shah.

357

Who was the Qutub Minar dedicated to?

The Sufi saint Qutbuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki and not Qutbuddin Aibak as people mistakenly assume.

358

In which language did Shankaradeva, a Bhakti Saint, propagate his views?

Assamese.

359

In which language did Surdas sing?

Brij.

360

Where is the famous Kamakhya temple (Kamakshi)?

At Guwahati.

361

Which Mughal Emperor adopted the Zoroastrian
practice of Navroz?

Akbar.

362

Which were the provinces added by Aurangzeb to the Mughal Empire?

Bijapur and Golconda.

363

Who took care of Shah Jahan when he was kept imprisoned by Aurangzeb?

Jahanara, Shah Jahan's daughter.

364

Who installed a chain of bells outside his palace gate?

Jahangir.

365

Why was the chain of bells installed?

This was the "Chain of Justice" installed to ensure that all citizens of the country had access to justice.

366

During the reign of which Mughal Emperor was the peacock throne made?

Shah Jahan.

367

Which place did Vasco da Gama reach when he found a new route to India?

Calicut. Now known as Kozhikode

368

What were the European Factories that are referred to in Indian history?

Factories were nothing but fortified trading stations established by the European powers in India.

369

Where did the English set up their first factory?

Surat.

370

Who was the Englishman who succeeded in getting a farman from the Mughals exempting the English from paying any inland toll?

Sir Thomas Roe.

371

What prompted Jahangir to allow the English to set up a factory in Surat?

The British defeated the Portuguese naval squadrons. Jahangir wanted to use the English as a counter against the growing Portuguese power.

372

What were the reasons why the British wanted to secure Bombay from the Portuguese?

Those controlling Bombay controlled trade on the west coast. And there was no interference from either the Mughals or the Marathas on this sea.

373

Which city did Job Charnock establish?

Colcutta.

374

Which Saint inspired the Marathas with ideals of social reform and national regeneration?

Saint Samarth Ramdas.

375

Near which fort, acquired early in his career, did Shivaji build Raigarh?

Torna.

376

Between 1649 and 1655 Shivaji suspended offensive operations against Bijapur. Why did he do so?

His father had been arrested and was released only on the condition that Shivaji suspend his military activities.

377

Alauddin Khalji was the nephew and son-in-law of a Delhi Sultan whom he later murdered. Who was the sultan?

Jalaluddin Firuz Khalji.

378

One of the more interesting causes for a battle fought in Indian history has been vividly described by Malik Muhammad Jayasi in his epic Padmavat. What, according to Malik Muhammad Jayasi was the cause of the battle?

That Allaudin Khalji invaded Chittor because he was infatuated by Padmini, the queen of Rana Ratan Singh of Mewar.

379

Why did Muhammad-bin-Tughluq shift his capital from Delhi?

He shifted his capital to Deogir (Deogiri) because it held a central position in the empire and therefore, would be safe from Mongol invasions.

380

Who was the first Afghan to be seated on the throne of Delhi?

Buhlul Khan Lodi (in April 1451).

381

Which kingdom came into existence during the reign of Muhammad bin Tughlaq?

Bahmani kingdom.

382

Where is Babur buried?

He is buried in Kabul.

383

Poems of which Kashmiri poet are the oldest of the ones still available with us?

LallaDidi(LalDed)

384

The ruler of Bihar conferred upon the young Farid a title. What was the title and why was it conferred upon him?

Sher Khan, for killing a tiger single-handed.

385

What was the name assumed by Farid when he ascended the throne?

Sher Shah.

386

Who were the opponents in the battle fought at Chausa?

Humayun and Sher Shah.

387

How did Sher Shah die?

Sher Shah died due to an accidental explosion of gunpowder while attempting to capture the fort Kalinjar in 1545.

388

Which ruler helped Humayun recover Kandahar and Kabul?

The Ruler of Persia.

389

Who proclaimed Akbar the Emperor?

Bairam Khan in 1556.

390

What words did Saint Ramanuja use to describe the scheduled castes?

Tirukulattar (Belonging to the family of God).

391

At what age did Akbar ascend the thorne?

Thirteen years.

392

How did Humayun die?

Humayun tumbled down the stairs of his library when he was responding to the call of muezzin for evening prayers.

393

What was the occupation of Himu (also spelt Hemu) before he rose to prominence in politics?

He was a grocer.

394

Who fought the second battle of Panipat?

Akbar and Himu.

395

Who wrote Lilavati, a treatise on Algebra?

Bhaskaracharya.

396

What title did Himu adopt after he occupied Agra and Delhi by defeating its Mughal governor?

Raja Vikramaditya

397

Who did Iltutmish nominate as his successor

His daughter Razia.

398

Himu, in the battle of Panipat, gained initial success against the Mughal forces. How did the tide turn in the favour of the Mughals?

A chance arrow struck Himu in the eye rendering him unconscious. Deprived of his leadership his soldiers dispersed in confusion.

399

The Mughal forces defeated a Rajput ruler at the pass of Haldighat. Which ruler are we talking about?

Rana Pratap.

400

Which work describes the romantic story of the marriage of Sanyogita the daughter of the Gahadavala king Jaichandra with Prithviraj Chauhan?

Prithviraja Raso.

401

Marco Polo was a traveller (from Venice) who is very well known for his adventures. Which south Indian dynasty does he mention in his travelogues?

The Kakatiya dynasty.

402

Timur or Tamerlane, a central Asian Turk (and an ancestor of Babur) invaded India and ransacked Delhi. Who was the ruler of Delhi at that time?

Sultan Mahmud Shah.

403

Name the ruler of the Tughluq dynasty who was well versed in Astronomy, Mathematics and Medicine.

Muhammad bin Tughluq.

404

A particular dance form gained prominence during the Vijayanagara period. What was the dance form?

Yakshagana.

405

Who fought the battle of Talikota?

The battle was fought between the Vijayanagara Empire and the combined forces of the Deccan Sultans. The Sultan of Berar however did not take part in this battle.

406

Who won the battle of Talikota?

The Vijayanagara forces were comprehensively defeated and this eventually led to their downfall.

407

Where was the Battle of Talikota fought?

It was fought in the area between the villages of Rakassi and Tangadi (Tagdi). Due to the bloodshed and ruin that this battle brought on the Vijayanagara Empire it was also called 'Raktakshi Tangadi'.

408

Who were the opponents at the battle of Khanua?

Rana Sanga and Babur.

409

What was the name of RanaPratap's horse?

Chetak.

410

Who was the Jesuit missionary who held personal
discussions with Akbar?

Anthony Monserrate.

411

How do we better know Mihr-un-nisa in Indian
history?

NurJahan.

412

What was the title given to Mihr-un-nisa by Jahangir?

Nur Mahal (the light of the Palace). The title was later changed to Nur Jahan (Light of the World).

413

Who was the Mughal queen whose name was written on all the imperial Mughal farmans of her time and inscribed on coins?

Nur Jahan.

414

After Akbar secured victory in Gujarat he undertook an activity to commemorate this victory. What was that activity?

He founded the city of Fatehpur Sikri.

415

By which name was Ramtanu Mishra known?

Tansen. He was earlier in the employment of the Raja of Rewah.

416

Name the Mughal emperor who was an accomplished veena player.

Aurangzeb

417

The Razmnama in Persian was a compilation by several scholars. Of which Hindu epic was this a translation?

Mahabharata

418

Name Aurangzeb's daughter who wrote under the pen name Makhi and produced a collection of poems.